CARING FOR YOUR SKIN DURING COVID-19
Updated: Apr 6
Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, we have been wearing masks and washing our hands more frequently than ever. Using the mask for those dealing with problems like acne, dryness or irritated skin on your face and hands, you are not alone.
We have spoken to a few dermatologists, in order to provide you with accurate information, on how best to take care of you skin during these difficult times.
Many people are experiencing what is called acne mechanica, commonly known as “maskne.” Acne mechanica is a type of skin irritation that is caused by excess heat, pressure and rubbing against the skin. Masks can cause debris, sweat and saliva to be trapped on the skin, which can result in a breakout.
Other people have seen premature aging on the lower part of the face, as a result of ski dehydration and toxins that get trapped on the mask and are absorbed into the skin.
Here are a few things you can do to help your skin stay healthy:
Always use a gentle cleanser and moisturizer before putting on your mask. Ideally, you should cleanse and moisturize your face every morning and evening.
To treat acne spots, use an effective but not drying or irritating acne product.
Avoid wearing makeup underneath your mask. The combination of makeup and sweat under the mask can cause irritated skin, breakouts, toxicity, itch and clogged pores.
If wearing cloth masks, wash your mask frequently with a fragrance-free and dye-free laundry detergent.
Use skin products that contain effective, preferable natural anti-oxidants and effective nourishing ingredients.
Many people are also dealing with extremely dry skin, skin irritation and even eczema on their hands as a result of increased hand washing and frequent use of hand sanitizer. Here are a few dermatologist recommendations:
Use a fragrance-free, gentle soap to wash your hands. Always choose this option over hand sanitizer when you can.
Moisturize your hands after you wash them. For severely dry hands, an ointment, such as Vaseline, is best.
Dryness induced eczema must be treated with products that promote hydration and water retention on the skin. (See LUXU - The Ultimate Hydrator). This products has received rave reviews for providing superb hydration, it retains and preserves skin moisture, relieves redness and flakiness, calms the skin and relieves itch.
Avoid products that contain alcohol, isopropyl alcohol or added fragrance, as these may be more irritating and cause the skin to dehydrate faster.
Avoid comedogenic products such as heavy greasy skin moisturizers.
Here are some foods and beverages you'll want to stock up, to ensure your immune system is in top condition amidst the pandemic and your skin is properly nourished:
Bone Broth: bone broth boosts the immune system by supporting the health of your gut and reducing inflammation.
Citrus Fruits and Pineapples: These fruits are packed with vitamin C which strengthen the immune system and helpful in reducing the risk of getting the common cold and cutting infection rates by as much as 50%.
Ginger: this powerful plant can help to cleanse the lymphatic system, thus supporting the body's ability to eliminate toxins.
Garlic: among a top food choice for boosting your immune system as it increases antiseptic, antibacterial, and antifungal properties—which can help the body resist or destroy viruses.
Salmon: loaded with vitamin D, it plays a critical role in modulating the way the immune system responds to COVID-19. Research has demonstrated that vitamin D deficiency is associated with increased susceptibility to infection such as respiratory infections.
Fermented Foods: they supply the body with beneficial probiotic bacteria that improve gut health, thereby strengthening the immune system," some of the best-fermented foods include kefir, kombucha, sauerkraut, and kimchi.
Bell Peppers: A 1-cup serving of bell peppers contains169% of your daily recommended value of vitamin C. That's pretty impressive when you consider that 1 cup of oranges contains 96 milligrams.
Other foods that can contribute to a healthy immune system are:
Broccoli Sprouts, Matcha Green Tea, Olive Leaf, Reishi Mushrooms, Berries, Coconut Oil.
